In Honor of Mario Danelo
As much as I dislike USC as a team, I was shocked and saddened when I read that their kicker, Mario Danelo, was found dead on Saturday at the bottom of a cliff in the San Pedro area of Los Angeles. My dislike of the USC Trojans extends only to the team as a whole, and never to any of the individual members. When the Trojans lose a game, of course I celebrate; however, when one of their players loses his life tragically, I find it not only impossible to be elated, but also completely insensitive to be even remotely satisfied. After all, this is a human life, a life that is loved infinitely by God and without reservation. When I read the story abot 21 year old Danelo's body being found, my first reaction was something to the effect of, "WHAT? HOW TERRIBLE!" It was certainly not a reaction of excitement; rather, it was a reaction of deep sorrow.
Regardless of our allegiances, may we all recognize that every life lost so tragically is a loss for the entire human race. Let us all, therefore, offer our prayers for the repose of the soul of Mario Danelo, whose life was lost tragically and suddenly. Let us also pray that his family may be healed and comforted in this time of great loss.